Fin's Fish Guide
The Whiptail catfish (Loricaria cataphracta) is a freshwater fish of the family Loricariidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Description
The whiptail catfish is a South American armoured catfish of the family Loricariidae. The species grows to about 30 cm and has a strongly flattened, elongate body with a long, thin, whip-like tail stem and a downward-facing suckermouth. The body is armoured with rows of bony plates, providing protection. It inhabits quiet waters and ponds with soft bottoms, where by day it buries itself or lies still. With its rasping suckermouth it scrapes algae, growth and detritus, and sifts small invertebrates from the bottom material. The male carries the eggs on its lower lip. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Whiptail catfish?
The Whiptail catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Long, whip-shaped caudal peduncle and armoured body; the male carries the eggs on its lower lip.
Where does the Whiptail catfish live?
The Whiptail catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. South America; calm waters and ponds with soft bottoms.
How big does the Whiptail catfish get?
The Whiptail catfish grows to a maximum of about 30 cm.
Is the Whiptail catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Whiptail catfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Whiptail catfish edible?
The Whiptail catfish is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Loricaria
More from the family Loricariidae
Want the complete picture on the Whiptail catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Whiptail catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.